Ex-Referee Marelli Comments on Napoli's Penalty Claims Against Inter: Osimhen's Contact Too Slight for Foul

In the recent Serie A encounter between Napoli and Inter Milan, a potential penalty incident involving Napoli's Victor Osimhen became a point of discussion. Former Serie A referee Luca Marelli, speaking with DAZN, as reported by FCInter1908, expressed his opinion that the contact made on Osimhen by Inter defender Francesco Acerbi was insufficient to warrant a penalty.

Osimhen, back from a hamstring injury and starting for Napoli, was involved in a notable second-half incident where he seemed to be clipped by Acerbi. Although contact was evident, referee Davide Massa and the VAR team did not consider it substantial enough to award a penalty, a decision Marelli supported.

Marelli highlighted that the contact, albeit present, was too minor and occurred on the side of the leg, not justifying a penalty or even an on-pitch review. He also addressed a controversial moment leading to Inter’s first goal, acknowledging Napoli’s argument but ultimately agreeing with the decision not to disallow the goal. Marelli did note, however, that the arm around Napoli midfielder Stanislav Lobotka during the buildup was an evident infraction, but one that VAR couldn't intervene in.